April 8, 2024
Starr Regional Medical Center (SRMC) announced the successful implementation of an insertable cardiac monitor (ICM), marking a significant advancement in the detection and diagnosis of irregular heart rhythms. The procedure, performed by Yasir Akhtar, MD, of Starr Cardiology Associates and the Starr Regional Medical Center cardiac catheterization team, was the first ICM implantation at SRMC, demonstrating a continued commitment to advancing cardiac care in McMinn County and its surrounding communities.
Irregular heartbeats–known as arrhythmias–may be fleeting, making diagnosis challenging in many patients. The ICM, a compact device implanted just under the skin, offers continuous, real-time heart monitoring. This capability is crucial for detecting and identifying arrhythmias, which can cause symptoms such as frequent fainting, irregular pulse and shortness of breath.
The ICM technology supports long-term monitoring, offering critical insights for patients undergoing therapy, post-cardiac ablation, or those at risk of developing further arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation. It incorporates Bluetooth® technology for seamless data transmission to the clinic, facilitating timely clinical decisions without frequent clinic visits.
“We are confident that this procedure and the information we receive through extended diagnostic monitoring enhances the quality of care we provide cardiac patients at Starr Regional Medical Center,” said Yasir Akhtar, MD, an interventional cardiologist at Starr Cardiology Associates. “The insertable cardiac monitor provides another tool in our arsenal for providing patients the best possible care.”
SRMC’s experienced cardiovascular team provides diagnostic, interventional and rehabilitative services that diagnose and treat a broad spectrum of cardiac and vascular conditions. The hospital, which is an accredited Chest Pain Center, opened its cardiac catheterization (cath) lab and launched an interventional cardiology program in 2023. This program enables the diagnosis and treatment of heart blockages and other cardiac conditions locally, sparing patients the burden of traveling far for care.
“Starr Regional Medical Center continues to expand access to services and invest in new technology and capabilities to meet the needs of our community,” said John McLain, Chief Executive Officer of Starr Regional Medical Center. “By enhancing our cardiology services and expanding access to life-saving heart care, we are furthering our mission of making communities healthier for the region and patients we serve.”
Learn more about services provided at Starr Cardiology Associates.